Thank you for visiting my webpage!
My calling is public service. By answering the call, I have had opportunities to work on fascinating projects in academia and government. I have earned two Master’s Degrees in Public Health and Nursing and a PhD in Health Policy. I am passionate about using data to improve lives and consider myself a data scientist. I have done extensive work on injury prevention research and policy in Boston, MA, San Francisco, CA, Cheyenne, WY, and Providence, RI.
I believe in an interdisciplinary approach to solving societal challenges. I have had the opportunity to view my interests-- bicycle/pedestrian injuries and opioid overdoses-- from various perspectives because of the roles I have played at the macro and micro levels in public health and healthcare. I have worked on the academic side and on the government side with policy makers, advocates, engineers, urban planners, and medical personnel. I have also been a nurse in an emergency department, providing care for patients who have sustained road injuries.
I have earned prestigious awards for my service to the public, including the Presidential Public Service Fellowship at Harvard, the Chancellor's Public Service award at the University of California, San Francisco, and the Commissioner's Commendation Award at the Boston Police Department. I am thankful every day for the opportunity to make a positive impact, even a small one, on society. I look forward to continuing to use my passion and talents to making a difference.
I am very fulfilled in my personal life as well. My husband has been my best friend for 14 years and my family back home, in Los Angeles, supports every one of my decisions. I also have a big fluffy cat. I am currently writing a book about my humble beginnings. My hobbies include playing guitar and drums. I own a Gretsch Catalina Maple set with Zildjian K and Saabian HHX cymbals. My favorite band is Led Zeppelin. I have had the opportunity to learn the fundamentals of percussion from an outstanding professor at the Berklee College of Music. I also dance salsa and dabble in video production and editing.